Where to Stay in Phi Phi Islands: Best Areas & Hotels for Every Traveller

If you’re planning a trip to the Phi Phi Islands, choosing where to stay can make a big difference to your experience. While Phi Phi is famous for its beautiful beaches, turquoise water and lively nightlife, each area has a very different feel.

We stayed at ChaoKoh Phi Phi Hotel & Resort, and honestly, we were surprised by how luxurious it felt for the price we paid. Because we were visiting during low season, we paid just £26 per night, which felt like incredible value for the quality of the hotel and the location.

But choosing where to stay in Phi Phi isn’t just about finding a good hotel. Some areas put you right in the middle of the action, while others are better if you want beautiful beaches, peace and quiet, or easy access to boat trips.

In this guide, I’ll take you through the best areas to stay in Phi Phi Islands, what each area is like, who it is best suited to and some of the best hotels to consider. I’ll also share where we stayed and why we thought it offered such fantastic value for money.

Where to Stay in Phi Phi Islands: Best Areas

Choosing where to stay in Phi Phi Islands really depends on what you want from your trip. The main areas have very different atmospheres, from busy streets filled with restaurants and bars to quiet beaches where you can escape the crowds.

For a first trip, I’d recommend thinking about how important nightlife, beaches, restaurants and peace and quiet are to you before booking your hotel. Here’s a breakdown of the best areas to stay in Phi Phi Islands.

Tonsai Village – Best for First-Time Visitors

Tonsai Village is one of the most convenient places to stay on Phi Phi Don and is where many first-time visitors choose to base themselves. It is close to Tonsai Pier, making it particularly handy when arriving on the island with luggage.

You’ll find plenty of restaurants, shops, tour operators and bars within easy walking distance, so you won’t have to travel far for food or to book boat trips and activities.

Tonsai is also a great option if you want to explore Phi Phi rather than spend your entire trip at one resort. From here, you can easily walk around the island and reach other beaches and viewpoints.

The downside is that this is one of the busier parts of Phi Phi. If you’re looking for complete peace and quiet, you may prefer one of the more secluded areas.

Loh Dalum – Best for Nightlife and a Lively Atmosphere

Loh Dalum is located on the opposite side of the island from Tonsai Village and is famous for its beautiful beach and lively atmosphere.

This is one of the best areas to stay in Phi Phi if nightlife is high on your list. There are plenty of bars and beach parties in the area, and the atmosphere can become particularly lively after dark.

During the day, Loh Dalum Beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. The bay is surrounded by the dramatic limestone cliffs that make Phi Phi so recognisable.

However, if you’re a light sleeper or want an early night, think carefully before booking here. The nightlife can mean music and noise late into the evening, so this area is better suited to travellers who want to be close to the action.

Long Beach – Best for a Quieter Beach Stay

Long Beach is a good choice if you want to experience Phi Phi’s beautiful beaches while staying somewhere quieter than the main villages.

The beach is backed by accommodation and restaurants, but the atmosphere is much more relaxed. It can be a great option for couples or anyone who wants to spend their days swimming, sunbathing and enjoying the views.

Long Beach is also within reach of Tonsai Village, although you’ll need to walk or take a long-tail boat depending on where you’re staying.

If you want the convenience of being on Phi Phi but don’t want to stay right in the middle of the busiest area, Long Beach is worth considering.

Laem Tong Beach – Best for Luxury and Seclusion

If your idea of Phi Phi involves a peaceful beach surrounded by beautiful scenery, Laem Tong Beach could be the perfect area for you.

Located on the northern part of Phi Phi Don, Laem Tong is much more secluded than Tonsai Village and Loh Dalum. It’s home to several higher-end resorts, making it a popular choice for travellers looking for a more luxurious island escape.

The main appeal here is the tranquillity. You can enjoy the beach and surrounding scenery without the same crowds and nightlife found around the centre of Phi Phi.

The trade-off is convenience. Laem Tong is further away from the main tourist areas, so it isn’t the best choice if you want to spend lots of time exploring Tonsai Village or experiencing the nightlife.

Loh Ba Kao Bay – Best for a Peaceful Escape

Loh Ba Kao Bay is another option for travellers who want to get away from the busiest parts of Phi Phi.

The bay has a much more peaceful atmosphere and is surrounded by tropical scenery, making it a great choice if relaxing is the main reason for your visit.

There are resorts and restaurants in the area, but you’ll have fewer options than you would around Tonsai Village. Getting around the island can also take a little more planning.

For me, this is the kind of area I’d recommend to someone who wants their Phi Phi trip to feel more like a traditional island escape rather than a busy backpacker destination.

Where We Stayed in Phi Phi Islands

For our stay in Phi Phi Islands, we chose ChaoKoh Phi Phi Hotel & Resort, and it turned out to be one of the best-value hotels we have stayed at during our time in Thailand.

We were visiting during low season, which meant we managed to get a really good deal. We paid just £26 per night, and for the quality of the hotel, we honestly felt like we had found a bit of a bargain.

One of our favourite things about the hotel was the swimming pool. After spending our days exploring Phi Phi, going on boat trips and swimming in the sea, it was so nice to have such a great pool to come back to. In fact, it was probably the best swimming pool of our trip so far.

ChaoKoh Phi Phi – Our Hotel Pick

ChaoKoh Phi Phi is in a really convenient location, making it a great base for exploring the island. We were close enough to restaurants, shops and the main areas of Phi Phi that we could easily get around on foot.

What really stood out to us was how luxurious the hotel felt for the price we paid. At just £26 a night, we weren’t expecting it to feel as nice as it did, so it was a particularly pleasant surprise.

The swimming pool was another huge bonus for us. In fact, it was probably the best swimming pool of our trip so far. After hot days exploring Phi Phi and taking boat trips, it was lovely to come back to the hotel and spend some time relaxing by the pool.

Check prices and availability at ChaoKoh Phi Phi on Booking.com

If you’re visiting Phi Phi during low season, I’d definitely recommend checking the prices at ChaoKoh Phi Phi. We paid just £26 per night, which made it incredible value for the quality of the hotel and the facilities.

What We Loved About ChaoKoh Phi Phi

The biggest selling point for us was definitely the value for money. Paying £26 per night for a hotel that felt this luxurious was fantastic, especially considering how popular Phi Phi is.

We also loved the swimming pool, which was easily one of our favourite hotel pools of the trip so far. It gave us the perfect place to relax between exploring the island and taking boat trips.

The location was another big plus. We didn’t feel like we had to sacrifice convenience to get a good price, and we could easily walk to plenty of restaurants and other parts of Phi Phi.

Overall, ChaoKoh Phi Phi was a really pleasant surprise. We weren’t expecting such a luxurious-feeling hotel for £26 per night, and if you can find a similar low-season deal, we think it offers fantastic value.

How Much We Paid for ChaoKoh Phi Phi

We paid £26 per night for our stay at ChaoKoh Phi Phi.

This was thanks to travelling during low season, and it made the hotel feel like an absolute bargain. Prices will obviously vary depending on the season and availability, but if you’re travelling during a quieter period, it’s worth checking what deals are available.

For us, ChaoKoh Phi Phi was a great example of why travelling during low season can sometimes give you the chance to stay somewhere much nicer without blowing your budget.

Where to Stay in Phi Phi Islands for Different Types of Travellers

There isn’t one single best area to stay in Phi Phi Islands. The right choice really depends on what you want from your trip.

Some travellers want to be close to the nightlife and restaurants, while others would rather wake up somewhere peaceful with a beautiful beach nearby. Here’s a quick breakdown of where I would recommend staying depending on the type of trip you’re planning.

Where to Stay in Phi Phi for First-Time Visitors

If this is your first visit to Phi Phi Islands, Tonsai Village is probably the easiest place to base yourself.

You’ll be close to Tonsai Pier, restaurants, shops, tour operators and plenty of the island’s main attractions. This makes it particularly convenient if you’re only staying for a couple of nights and want to make the most of your time.

We stayed close to this area at ChaoKoh Phi Phi and found the location really convenient for exploring the island.

Where to Stay in Phi Phi for Couples

For couples, I’d look at Long Beach, Laem Tong Beach or Loh Ba Kao Bay, depending on your budget.

Long Beach offers a good balance between a beautiful beach and access to the main areas of Phi Phi. If you’re looking for something more romantic and secluded, Laem Tong is a better choice, particularly if you’re happy to spend more on your accommodation.

Loh Ba Kao Bay is another good option if relaxing together is more important than being close to nightlife and restaurants.

Where to Stay in Phi Phi for Nightlife

If nightlife is one of the main reasons you’re visiting Phi Phi, Loh Dalum is the area I’d consider first.

You’ll be close to the beach bars, parties and lively evening atmosphere. Tonsai Village is also a good option if you want nightlife alongside a wider choice of restaurants, shops and accommodation.

Just remember that staying close to the nightlife also means you’re more likely to hear it. If you prefer an early night, I’d choose somewhere further away from the main party areas.

Where to Stay in Phi Phi for a Quiet Beach Holiday

If your idea of Phi Phi is spending your days swimming, relaxing on the beach and enjoying the scenery, I’d avoid staying directly in the busiest parts of Tonsai Village and Loh Dalum.

Long Beach is a great middle ground, while Laem Tong Beach and Loh Ba Kao Bay are better choices if you want a more peaceful escape.

These areas are further from the main tourist centre, but that’s also part of their appeal. You’re trading some convenience for a quieter island experience.

Where to Stay in Phi Phi on a Budget

If you’re travelling on a budget, Tonsai Village is a good place to start looking because there is a wide range of accommodation.

However, don’t automatically assume that the cheapest room is the best deal. We visited during low season and managed to stay at ChaoKoh Phi Phi for just £26 per night, and we thought it felt incredibly luxurious for what we paid.

If you’re travelling outside the busiest periods, it’s always worth checking hotel prices before ruling out somewhere that looks more expensive. You might be surprised by the deals available.

Best Hotels in Phi Phi Islands

There is accommodation to suit almost every budget in Phi Phi Islands, from simple bungalows and budget hotels to beautiful beachfront resorts. Prices can also change considerably depending on the season, so I always recommend checking a few dates before deciding where to stay.

Here are some hotels worth considering across different budgets and areas of Phi Phi.

Best Budget Hotels in Phi Phi

If you’re travelling on a budget, you don’t necessarily have to sacrifice location. There are plenty of affordable places to stay around Tonsai and Long Beach.

Viking Nature Resort – A great option if you want something that feels more like an island escape without spending a fortune. The resort is close to Long Beach and has a more relaxed, natural feel. Booking.com currently shows it as highly rated, with a 9.0 score from thousands of reviews.

Paradise Pearl Bungalows – Located on Long Beach, this is a good option if being close to the beach is more important to you than being in the middle of Tonsai Village. Booking.com currently gives it a 8.9 rating from more than 1,600 reviews.

Phi Phi Andaman Beach Resort – A more affordable option close to the main areas of Phi Phi, making it worth considering if you want convenience without a high price tag.

Best Mid-Range Hotels in Phi Phi

If you have a little more to spend, Phi Phi has some excellent mid-range accommodation where you can get a nicer room, swimming pool or better location without moving into luxury-resort prices.

Phi Phi Sand Sea View Resort – A good option for travellers looking for affordable accommodation close to the action. It’s particularly worth considering if location is important to you.

Mama Beach Residence – This adults-only property has a beachfront location and offers a more peaceful atmosphere while still being close to Tonsai. Booking.com currently lists it with a 9.1 rating.

ChaoKoh Phi Phi Hotel & Resort – This is where we stayed, and it was easily one of our favourite accommodation finds in Thailand. We paid just £26 per night during low season, and for that price, we thought the hotel felt incredibly luxurious. The swimming pool was probably the best pool of our trip so far.

Check prices and availability at ChaoKoh Phi Phi on Booking.com

Best Luxury Hotels in Phi Phi

If you’re looking to make your stay in Phi Phi more of a special occasion, there are several beautiful resorts away from the busiest parts of the island.

OUTRIGGER Phi Phi Island Resort – Located on Laem Tong Beach, this is a great choice if you want a luxury resort away from the crowds. Booking.com currently rates it 9.5, with guests particularly praising the location and relaxing atmosphere.

SAii Phi Phi Island Village Resort – A beautiful resort on the quieter side of Phi Phi, ideal if you want to spend your stay enjoying the resort, beach and tropical surroundings rather than being close to the nightlife.

Phi Phi Phu Chalet Resort – A peaceful option surrounded by tropical scenery. Booking.com currently gives it a 9.1 rating, with guests particularly praising its quiet location.

When choosing a luxury hotel in Phi Phi, remember that many of the more secluded resorts are deliberately away from Tonsai Village. This can be perfect if you’re looking for peace and quiet, but you’ll need to factor in boat transfers when planning your days.

Tips for Booking Accommodation in Phi Phi Islands

Choosing a hotel in Phi Phi Islands isn’t just about finding somewhere with a good price. The area you choose can completely change your experience, especially because Phi Phi Don doesn’t have roads or cars and some of the more secluded accommodation is reached by boat.

Here are a few things I would consider before booking your accommodation.

Book the Right Area for Your Trip

Think about what you actually want from your time in Phi Phi before choosing a hotel.

If you want restaurants, shops, boat trips and nightlife within easy walking distance, Tonsai Village is the most convenient option. If you’d rather have a quieter beach stay, Long Beach is a great alternative, while Laem Tong and Loh Ba Kao are better suited to travellers looking for a more secluded resort experience.

Don’t simply choose a hotel because it looks beautiful in the photos. Check where it is on the island and think about whether the location suits the type of holiday you want.

Check How You Will Get to Your Hotel

This is particularly important when booking accommodation in Phi Phi.

There are no cars or motorbikes on Phi Phi Don, so getting around is mainly done on foot or by long-tail boat. While central hotels are generally easy to reach from Tonsai Pier, some of the more remote resorts require a boat transfer.

If you’re travelling with large bags, this is definitely something I’d check before booking. A hotel that looks close on a map may not be particularly easy to reach with luggage.

It’s also worth checking how you’ll get back to Tonsai when you want to explore the restaurants, shops or nightlife.

Consider Visiting During Low Season

If your dates are flexible, travelling during low season can be a great way to get more for your money.

We visited during low season and managed to stay at ChaoKoh Phi Phi for just £26 per night. For the quality of the hotel, we thought this was incredible value, and the swimming pool was probably the best of our trip so far.

Hotel prices can vary considerably depending on the time of year, so I would always check several dates before deciding that a particular hotel is outside your budget.

Just remember that low season can also mean rougher sea conditions and some accommodation and businesses operating with reduced services, so check what will be available during your dates.

Don’t Just Choose a Hotel Based on Price

The cheapest hotel isn’t necessarily going to be the best value.

Before booking, look at the location, reviews, facilities and how easy it is to get around. Paying slightly more for a better location or a hotel with a good swimming pool can sometimes make a big difference to your stay.

Our experience at ChaoKoh Phi Phi was a good example of this. We paid just £26 per night during low season, but the hotel felt much more luxurious than we expected for that price.

I’d also check whether breakfast, transfers or other extras are included before comparing prices. A slightly more expensive room can sometimes work out better value once everything is taken into account.

Frequently Asked Questions About Where to Stay in Phi Phi Islands

What is the best area to stay in Phi Phi Islands?

For most first-time visitors, Tonsai Village is one of the best areas to stay because it is close to restaurants, shops, boat trips and the main tourist attractions. If you prefer somewhere quieter, Long Beach, Loh Ba Kao or Laem Tong Beach may be a better choice.

Is it better to stay in Tonsai Village or Loh Dalum?

It depends on what you want from your trip. Tonsai Village is better for convenience, with plenty of restaurants, shops and tour operators nearby. Loh Dalum is a better choice if nightlife and beach parties are important to you.

Where is the best place to stay in Phi Phi for couples?

Long Beach, Loh Ba Kao Bay and Laem Tong Beach are all good options for couples looking for a more peaceful stay. Long Beach offers a good balance of beach access and convenience, while the more remote areas are better if you want a secluded getaway.

Where should I stay in Phi Phi for nightlife?

Loh Dalum is one of the best areas for nightlife, with beach bars and parties continuing into the evening. Tonsai Village is another good option if you want to be close to nightlife but also want plenty of restaurants and other facilities nearby.

Where is the quietest place to stay in Phi Phi?

If peace and quiet are your priority, look towards Laem Tong Beach or Loh Ba Kao Bay. These areas are further away from the busy centre of Phi Phi and offer a more relaxed atmosphere.

Is Phi Phi expensive to stay in?

Phi Phi can be more expensive than some other destinations in Thailand, particularly during peak season. However, you can still find affordable accommodation, especially if you travel during low season. We paid just £26 per night at ChaoKoh Phi Phi during our visit and thought it offered fantastic value for money.

How many nights should you stay in Phi Phi Islands?

I would recommend staying at least two nights if you have the time. This gives you enough time to explore the island, enjoy the beaches and take a boat trip without feeling rushed. Staying longer is worthwhile if you want plenty of time to relax.

Is it worth staying overnight in Phi Phi Islands?

Yes, I definitely think it is worth staying overnight. Many visitors come to Phi Phi as a day trip, but staying on the island means you can experience it outside of the busiest daytime hours. You also have more time to enjoy the beaches, viewpoints, restaurants and nightlife.

What is the best hotel in Phi Phi Islands?

The best hotel depends on your budget and the type of experience you want. For us, ChaoKoh Phi Phi Hotel & Resort was a fantastic choice. We paid just £26 per night during low season and loved the swimming pool, which was probably the best pool of our trip so far.

Is it better to stay near Tonsai Pier?

Staying near Tonsai Pier is convenient if you want easy access when arriving and leaving Phi Phi, particularly if you’re travelling with luggage. It also puts you close to restaurants, shops and tour operators. However, if you want a quieter beach holiday, it may be worth staying further away from the pier.